Neil Diamond Cancels Tour After Devastating Diagnosis

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Neil Diamond Cancels Tour After Devastating Diagnosis

"So Good! So Good! So Good!"

There's only one song that can get a whole room screaming those words without a care in the world, and that's the iconic "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond.

While the chart-topping song became Diamond's most recognizable tune, there's so much more to the singer-songwriter's repertoire and success. Since making his debut in the 60s, Diamond has made a name for himself as one of the world's best-selling artists of all time.

Long Island Music Hall of Fame

The prolific entertainer has sold over 100 million albums worldwide, has had 13 hits in the Top 10, and amassed dozens of awards, including a Grammy and Golden Globes Award. In addition to "Sweet Caroline (Good Times Never Seemed So Good)," his long list of hits include "I'm a Believer," "Red Red Wine," and "Cracklin' Rosie."

Los Angeles Times

For decades, Diamond's vibrant performances and hit tunes made him one of the biggest concert draws in the country.

In 2016, Diamond announced that he was embarking on a world tour to mark the 50th anniversary of his first hit single "Solitary Man." The 50 Year Anniversary World Tour kicked off in California in April 2017, and the final show was scheduled for April 2018 in Perth, Australia.

Unfortunately, Diamond recently received a life-altering diagnosis, which prompted him to cancel the remaining concert dates, and retire from touring all together.

On January 22, Diamond announced on his website that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease.

"It is with great reluctance and disappointment that I announce my retirement from concert touring. I have been so honored to bring my shows to the public for the past 50 years," Diamond said. "My sincerest apologies to everyone who purchased tickets and were planning to come to the upcoming shows."

Inquisitr.com

The statement revealed that "the onset of the disease has made it difficult to travel and perform on a large scale basis but will allow Mr. Diamond to continue his writing, recording and development of new projects."

Diamond backed up the statement, adding, "I plan to remain active in writing, recording and other projects for a long time to come. My thanks goes out to my loyal and devoted audiences around the world. You will always have my appreciation for your support and encouragement. This ride has been "˜so good, so good, so good' thanks to you."

Parkinson's disease is a degenerative progressive disorder that affects the nerve cells that are responsible for sending signals that control body movement to your brain. There is currently no cure for the condition, but there are medications that effectively manage the symptoms.

Billboard

Fans of the legendary entertainer last saw him perform "Sweet Caroline" during FOX's New Year's Eve with Steve Harvey: Live From Times Square.

Diamond, who turns 77 on January 24, will be honored with the Recording Academy's Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2018 Grammy Award Ceremony on January 28.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Diamond.

Blair isn't a bestselling author, but she has a knack for beautiful prose. When she isn't writing for Shared, she enjoys listening to podcasts.